What should the Chicago White Sox focus on this offseason?

Aug 25, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Pedro Alvarez (24) reacts after hitting a solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the second inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

What is the most important position for Chicago White Sox to address this offseason?

There are four key positions I think need to be addressed by the White Sox, starting pitcher, relief pitcher, designated hitter and left field. They could be put in any order depending on opinion, but here are mine.

1. Bullpen
Look no further than the World Series. Both the San Francisco Giants and the Kansas City Royals had elite bullpens, and look at how far they got.

Given, they were strong in several other categories as well, but a bullpen is key due to the fact that finishing a game is the most important part of it. While there are several free agent options, a trade could be explored as well, especially if the player has a high upside and is young. Look for the White Sox to target late innings relievers with experience, such as a Sergio Romo type.

2. Designated hitter
The White Sox have some holes in their lineup, and DH is one of them. It is going to be interesting to see if the they find their DH via trade or free agency, because from all indications they are looking for a left-handed bat.

This would be a place to find a left handed bat, especially if he had power. Some options could be Pedro Alvarez or even Victor Martinez, with the latter being unlikely.

3. Starting pitcher
When the White Sox address starting pitching this offseason, expect them to look for a right-handed arm. They are left-handed dominant in their rotation, and that will become even more of an issue with the arrival of No. 1 prospect Carlos Rodon at some point next year.

Jason Hammel is an option via free agency if they are looking for a middle of the rotation arm. If they want to sign a pitcher coming off injury or a down year, look for them to go after Josh Johnson or Justin Masterson.

4. Left field
This is a position the White Sox need to upgrade as well, and may look for a young player in this spot. I wouldn’t expect them to go after an older free agent, just due to the fact that he will decline during his latter years with the team.

I am not sure who the Sox would want to sign via free agent to a big deal for LF, however they could make a trade. Wild Speculation: Matt Kemp, although it is highly unlikely and I wouldn’t do it. A better choice be to trade for a young, up and coming outfielder that will improve.

In my opinion, the Sox will be the big surprise spender in the offseason. Maybe a bit like the Seattle Mariners last year, although don’t expect them to give out a $200 million deal to one player. Expect them to spread it out over six to eight players, that are solid and can fit into a lineup with Adam Eaton, Jose Abreu and Avisail Garcia already in it.